Kansas City Royals Aim for Comeback in 2026 Season

Young stars Witt Jr., Caglianone, and Jensen lead the charge as Kris Bubic anchors the pitching rotation.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Kansas City Royals are hoping to bounce back in 2026 after an 80-82 record in 2025. Led by star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., the team has a talented young core that includes outfielder Jac Caglianone and catcher Carter Jensen, who are poised to make an impact this season. Veteran pitcher Kris Bubic will be counted on to anchor the rotation as the Royals look to return to the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Royals have struggled in recent years, but this young nucleus of talent could propel the team back into contention in the American League Central. Witt Jr. has emerged as one of the best all-around players in the game, while the additions of Caglianone and Jensen give the Royals an exciting offensive outlook. If Bubic can lead the pitching staff, the Royals could surprise some teams in 2026.

The details

Bobby Witt Jr. is coming off a standout 2025 season in which he hit .295 with 23 home runs and 88 RBIs. The 25-year-old shortstop also led all players at his position with 47 doubles and 38 stolen bases. Outfielder Jac Caglianone, 23, struggled in his MLB debut in 2025 but has shown promise this spring. Catcher Carter Jensen, 22, impressed in limited action last year, batting .300 with 3 home runs and 13 RBIs in 20 games. Veteran left-hander Kris Bubic, 28, was the Royals' best starter in 2025, going 8-7 with a 2.55 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 116.1 innings.

  • The 2026 MLB regular season begins on March 26.
  • The Royals open their season at home against the Chicago White Sox on March 26.

The players

Bobby Witt Jr.

A 25-year-old shortstop who has emerged as one of the best all-around players in baseball, leading the Royals in nearly every offensive category in 2025.

Jac Caglianone

A 23-year-old outfielder who struggled in his MLB debut in 2025 but has shown promise this spring and could be a key part of the Royals' lineup in 2026.

Carter Jensen

A 22-year-old catcher who impressed in limited action last season, batting .300 with 3 home runs and 13 RBIs in 20 games, and is poised to take over the starting job from veteran Salvador Perez.

Kris Bubic

A 28-year-old left-handed starting pitcher who was the Royals' best starter in 2025, going 8-7 with a 2.55 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 116.1 innings.

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What’s next

The Royals will be closely watched in Spring Training as Caglianone and Jensen look to cement their spots on the Opening Day roster and join Witt Jr. as key contributors for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Royals have a talented young core that could propel the team back into contention in the American League Central, but the success of the 2026 season will hinge on the continued development of Witt Jr., Caglianone, and Jensen, as well as the ability of veteran pitcher Kris Bubic to anchor the starting rotation.